Born in Wellington in 1944, Peter struggled at school with what today would be recognised as dyslexia.

He left Wellington Tech at age 15 and worked as a telegram delivery boy before getting his first butcher’s job in Seatown where he learned his trade.

After moving to Auckland, he set up his own butchery on Rosella Road. It was here that his nickname originated with a sign outside his store that read “Rosella Meats, home of the Mad Butcher”.

Growing that franchise in particular through advertising on radio, Peter found an opportunity to indulge other passions including an unrivalled support of rugby league and championing charitable causes which were close to his heart.

Peter was recognised for his philanthropic work with a Queen’s Service Medal in 1991, and later was made a Knights Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Peter is married to Janice and they have two grown daughters and four grandchildren.